Microstructure Evolution in AZ61L During TTMP and Subsequent Annealing Treatments

Microstructure evolution is studied in Thixomolded® Thermomechanical Processed (TTMP) AZ61L sheet at various stages of processing. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is utilized to examine (1) grain refinement and recrystallization and (2) refinement and re-distribution of the β-Mg17Al12 phase in the as-Thixomolded, as-TTMP, and annealed conditions. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) is used to study texture evolution through TTMP and annealing. The influence of microstructure produced by TTMP and annealing on the mechanical properties will be discussed.